5 ways to find fun in Cairns after dark
When the sun sets on your day of sightseeing, exploring and relaxing on the beach, it’s time to embrace the night in Cairns.
Credit: Spirit of Cairns
Whether you’re looking for a romantic date night spot, to get a different perspective on local native wildlife in the dark, or to sip on a tropical cocktail in one of the destination’s coolest bars and watering holes, Cairns doesn’t disappoint past dusk.
And here’s just a few reasons why.
Start with a DINNER cruise, finish with a ferris wheel
When you just can’t get yourself off the water, a dinner cruise on Spirit of Cairns is the best way to end the day. The team on this stunning sailing catamaran welcomes you onboard with a pre-dinner drink for you to imbibe while you explore the boat and take in the night sky. Then it’s time to enjoy a bountiful buffet dinner featuring delicious seafood, hot and cold dishes and the best local produce. After the boat docks back at the marina at 9pm, take a short five-minute walk to The Reef Eye Ferris Wheel on The Esplanade for views of the city on high in the sky. Each fully-enclosed gondola can carry up to six passengers, offers 360 degree views and boasts an impressive LED light show.
The Reef Eye. Credit: @photosbygeorge81
2. GO ON A once-in-a-lifetime night dive
Just when you thought the world-famous Great Barrier Reef was magical enough by day, you have to see it at night! Hook yourself up with Diver’s Den for an evening out you’ll never forget, setting off to the reef by boat in the late afternoon and returning at 11.30pm so you can fit in two dive sessions, plus time for a rest and refuel in between with a bite to eat. Illuminated by torch light, you’ll see the reserve’s marine life at a time so few people have. All the equipment is supplied, plus expert advice, warm soup, nibbles and hot drinks, and even a hot shower!
Credit: Diver’s Den
3. Nighttime at the aquarium
One of Cairns’ most popular attractions, the Cairns Aquarium offers special after dark access to marine life enthusiasts, to witness the most impressive underwater nocturnal creatures. Enjoy a 90-minute guided tour and come face-to-face with some of the sea’s largest predators like sharks, rays and groupers. Extend the experience with a delectable two-course dinner at Dundee’s Restaurant on the waterfront, open to all ages, with tables nestled among the aquarium for views of life under the sea while you dine.
Cairns Aquarium. Credit: Tourism Tropical North Queensland
4. Hunt down local treasures at the night markets
Heady aromas of food from all over the world paired with the bustling activity of more than 130 market stalls awaits at the renowned night markets in Cairns. Open every day from 4.30pm, the vibrant outdoor market is home to an array of delicious food stalls and variety of local wares ready for shopaholics and culture-vultures to pour through, like locally-made jewellery, hand-blown glass, and unique gifts.
Credit: Cairns Night Markets
5. Get something tropical into your glass & onTO your plate
Cairns is well-known for its diverse dining scene, and it has it all from cheap eats to fine dining, from pubs and breweries to restaurants and bars. Whether it’s waterfront special occasion dinner action you’re after, or a quick bit of seafood straight off a trawler, you won’t go home on an empty stomach. A mix of live music, seaside views and cocktail joints, you’re spoilt for choice here.
Top spots for a bite & beverage
Credit: Hemingway’s Brewery
For beer lovers: Hemingway’s Brewery on the wharf can seat up to 600 people so you’re bound to get a spot to sip on an award-winning craft beer at this heritage-listed venue.
For cocktail connoisseurs: Tucked away on a brick laneway in the CBD is Three Wolves, a premium bar and wine experience. We recommend asking for suggestions from the bar staff because they definitely know their stuff when it comes to cocktails, whisky, gin, wine and craft brews.
For wine wanters: The Conservatory is a sophisticated specialty wine bar boasting hand-picked and ever-changing wine list maintained by its expert staff. In 2022 they received a 2 glass rating from the Australian Wine List of the Year in recognition of their expertise and we highly recommend enjoying a glass of your favourite drop with their specialty cheeses which are designed to be perfectly paired with every glass.
Harbourside Bar & Kitchen
For lovers of the grill: Built around a custom Argentinian wood-fired grill, The Salthouse is a bar, restaurant and pizzeria. Favouring and highlighting local produce and growers, their considered menu sees people from all over the region and the country flocking to taste the impressive dishes and bask in the breathtaking views.
For seafood seekers: Cairns-famous Prawn Star serves fresh seafood on their docked trawlers under festoon lights in the Marlin Marina. Picturesque and serving delicious locally caught seafood, you can feast on prawns, muscles, oysters, sashimi, lobsters and more. Open 11am - 9pm everyday, but we recommend a dinner reservation to guarantee you enjoy an evening on the water.
A night out that’s also a night in: Our very own Harbourside Bar & Kitchen is at the northern end of The Esplanade and its idyllic views make for a serene dining experience any night of the week. The menu showcases local produce and an extensive natural wine selection so you can sample something new every night of your stay in tropical paradise.